Day Trips
A quick glimpse at this website should convince you that you and your family can enjoy a wonderful day out on the Isle of Wight. There are the world famous coloured cliffs at The Needles of course, as well as a steam railway, a magnificent zoo park and even Dinosaur Isle. With over 60 perennially popular tourist attractions we could go on and on – and we’re sure your children would love to do just that.
Save some energy though – there’s also mile after mile of unspoilt heritage coastline to stroll along as well as picturesque villages and historic towns to explore. Add the fun of a ferry crossing and it’s the ideal formula for a great family escape.
Our offers will help make the Island even more enticing. We’ve negotiated special deals on all the attractions listed, so a break from home won’t break the bank. Prices shown are for a car and up to 4 people and include day return ferry travel from either Portsmouth or Lymington plus entrance to one of the attractions.
Browse these pages and you’ll see a selection of just a few of the sights on the Island. Each description includes other places of interest nearby as well as the low down on local restaurants, pubs and cafés. So come over soon and experience some Wight magic.
Pick a section below to start planning your day out!
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Carisbrooke Castle
Situated on a high ridge, this Norman castle is steeped in history. In 1647 Charles I was imprisoned in this fascinating attraction. It’s also home to the famous Carisbrooke Donkeys who demonstrate how the Waterwheel was turned in the well house in the late 17th century.
IN THE AREA: Newport Roman Villa.
Brothers’ Fish & Chips, Newport.
Valentino’s, Carisbrooke, 522458; The Bargeman’s Rest, Newport, 525828; The Blacksmith’s Arms, Carisbrooke, 529263.
OPENING TIMES AND SPECIAL EVENTS: 21 Mar-30 Sept 10am-5pm, 1 Oct-31 Mar 2009 10am-4pm, Closed 24-26 Dec 2008 and 1 Jan 2009. See website for details of special events in 2008.CONTACT: Tel: 01983 522107 www.english-heritage.org.uk
Mon & Fri: 52.50
Other days: 50.50
Extra Adult: 12.60
Extra Child: 6.85
Supplements apply for July & August
Brading Roman Villa
A beautiful Exhibition and Visitor Centre covers the remains of this wonderfully preserved 3rd century Roman Villa. See the stunning mosaics and Roman Garden. Free Parking. Wheelchairs available on request. DDA Compliant. Suitable for all ages.
IN THE AREA: Adgestone Vineyard, Dinosaur Isle, Morton Manor, Zoo.
La Scala, Sandown 403778.
The Bugle Inn, Brading 407359; Yarbridge Inn, Brading 406212.
OPENING TIMES AND SPECIAL EVENTS: Not valid on Event Days where separate admission applies, see website for details of special events.
Mar-Oct; 9.30am-5pm, Nov-Feb; 9.30am-4pm (last admission one hour before closing).
CONTACT: Tel: 01983 406223 www.bradingromanvilla.org.uk
All days: £50.50
Extra Adult:£10.90
Extra Child: £7.70
Osborne House
Delight in the Victorian splendour at Queen Victoria’s palace by the sea, where the rich opulence of the state rooms mixes with the intimacy of the family rooms. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Indian décor in the Durbar Room, stroll through the walled garden with hot houses containing exotic plants and relax as you take a horse and carriage ride around the extensive estate. The shop, restaurants and children’s play area add to a great day out at this top Island attraction.
IN THE AREA: Maritime Museum & Model Railway.
Chartroom Restaurant, Cowes, 292395; The Terrace, Osborne House, 200022.
Folly Inn, Folly Road, 297171.
OPENING TIMES: 21 Mar-30 Sept, 10am-6pm (House closes 5pm). 1 Oct-31 Oct 10am-4pm daily. 1 Nov-Mar 2009; 10am-4pm Wed-Sun (Pre-booked guided tours only Last tour 2.30pm). 8 Nov-4 Jan 2009, Christmas Tour Season. 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan Closed.
CONTACT: Tel: 01983 200022 www.english-heritage.org.uk
House & Grounds
Mon & Fri: £59.50
Other days: £57.50
Extra Adult: £15.40
Extra Child: £8.20
Supplements apply for July & August
Grounds Only
Mon & Fri: £51.50
Other days: £49.50
Extra Adult: £12.20
Extra Child: £6.60
Supplements apply for July & August
Notes:
All fares are subject to availability. Promotional & Standard Terms & conditions apply. Vehicle inclusive attraction packages are valid for travel before 0545 and after 0925 Monday to Friday and anytime Saturday or Sunday, with the following exclusions; 4, 5, 11 & 12 April; 23 & 24 May; 12, 13 & 16 June; 4, 5 & 8 September and on Fridays 25 July to 29 August between 0955 and 2025 and on Saturdays 26 July to 30 August between 0955 and 1625.
All opening times were correct at time of going to press (March 2008), but may change. Please check with the attraction prior to travel. Triplelink tickets are available on all Stagecoach South services serving Portsmouth. Supplements may apply for special events, please check prior to travel. We reserve the right to alter any of the information contained in this leaflet without notice. E&OE.
If dialling from the mainland or your mobile, please remember to include the prefix ‘01983’ for all Island-based attractions.
Please call Wightlink Reservations on 0871 376 4342 to book your day trip to the Isle of Wight, and not the attraction direct.
In the event that you purchase a ticket from us for, or to the extent your journey incorporates, travel on another mode of transport, such travel will be subject to the regulations and conditions of carriage of the carrier or carriers involved. Wightlink Limited shall issue any ticket issued for or used on such other transport as agents only for the carrier or carriers concerned. We cannot accept responsibility for the performance of other operators on services not provided by Wightlink.